Snyder calls out Ambassador Bridge company, renews call for New International Trade Crossing

Still from an TV advertisement by the Detroit International Bridge Company.

Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder repeatedly has suggested that one specific special interest is driving opposition to the proposed New International Trade Crossing.

And Wednesday, he called out that special interest by name.

"It's the Ambassador Bridge company," Snyder said during a town hall meeting broadcast online. "They've spent close to $5 million running misleading ads. It's understandable. They have a situaiton where they don't have competition and they can charge their tolls."

Snyder has backed plans to build a public bridge connecting Detroit and Windsor using private financing and labor. But the state legislature failed to vote on the proposal last year after months of contentious debate in committees.

The Detroit International Bridge Company, owned by billionaire Matty Moroun, financed a media blitz to oppose the public bridge, arguing that reduced border traffic does not justify a second crossing and suggesting Michigan taxpayers could be on the hook for long-term operational costs.

Snyder, however, is quick to point out that Canada has offered to cover Michigan's upfront costs with a $550 million loan repayable by future toll revenues.

"That's a pretty good deal folks," he said today, arguing that the project will generate short-term construction jobs and solidify the state's long-term position as a transportation hub. "You don't get a better deal than that."

While Snyder plans to continue to push bridge legislation, the Ambassador Bridge company is supporting a ballot drive that would require a public vote on Michigan's involvement in the project.